Programs unable to connect to internet

I have this problem where programs that needs to connect to the internet can't, while my internet explorer can. In fact internet explorer is the only program that can connect to the internet. Which means my firefox (my main browser I use), avg internet security, utorrent, windows live messenger, aim, itunes, etc, can't connect. I first had a problem when my internet browsers wouldn't connect, so I sent it to a pc guy and he removed some spyware and fixed my internet connection, but the thing is only internet explorer connects now. There are 3 laptops in my house that work fine with programs that need connection to the internet. I am connected through my linksys router which is connected to my modem. Oh and my os is windows vista and I am using a desktop.

UPDATE: Now internet explorer can't connect ever since I upgraded to vista ultimate. I tried disabling my firewall but that didn't help anything. Help would be highly appreciated.

 

I suspect the firewall in AVG internet security. In the configuration you can configure the firewall to allow specifict programs, or you can just disable it alltogether.

 

it is not avg since I am not running it right now

 

The spyware may have corrupted the AVG install. It may actually be running even though it appears to be off.

Try uninstalling it, then test your connectivity. If it works, then re-install AVG and test again.

HTH

Jerry

 

I will try that

 

avg wasn't the problem

 

Omg please help people